Art, music, food among Xmas lineup

The Garden City’s Christmas market lineup is arguably stronger than ever this festive season.

The traditional Christchurch Farmers Market’s Christmas edition in Riccarton is joined by a range of new, old and niche markets including arts and crafts, vegan and sustainably focused stalls, all offering their own plethora of unique gift ideas.

For those who work weekends and during the week, there are a variety of night markets leading up to Christmas in different parts of the city.

Due to the recently announced Covid-19 protection framework, commonly known as the traffic light system, market organisers must ensure they have clearly marked entrances and exits so they can monitor numbers, and anyone entering must scan-in using the Covid-19 app and wear a mask.

Some indoor-based markets have cancelled as they cannot adhere to the 1-metre distancing limits under the orange setting.

Here’s a comprehensive list of what the city has to offer in terms of locally sourced and supported Christmas markets this year.

Christchurch Farmers Market Christmas market: Saturday, December 18, 9am – 1pm

Set on the idyllic grounds of the historic heritage listed Riccarton House and Bush, the Christchurch Farmers Market is the largest community market the city has to offer.

Seasonal and local produce, ready to eat food stalls, organic coffee and live entertainment are the usual offerings, and its Christmas edition will no doubt be decorated and stocked appropriately.

A must go-to for any Christmas day dinner produce and goodies needed for the kids (or yourself). 16 Kahu Rd, Fendalton.

Christmas Market Day at Ferrymead Night Market: Saturday, December 4, 4pm – 8pm

The ever-popular tram and train service will be running throughout the day for a small cash fee at Ferrymead Heritage Park’s Christmas market edition.

A mixture of craft stalls and food vendors with their own Christmas twists are available to browse for a $2 coin entry on Saturday.

Some stalls and food stands have eftpos, but not all. 50 Ferrymead Park Drive, Ferrymead.

Christmas Extravaganza at Hornby Indoor Market: Saturday, December 11, 10am – 4pm

Boasting more than 100 stalls the past two years running, Hornby Indoor Market is one of the city’s fastest growing markets, and its Christmas version is no different.

Gift ideas, entertainment, loads of food and giveaways are the promises of the day at the Hornby market. 35 Amyes Rd, Hornby.

Vintage Christmas Market – Avebury House: Sunday, December 5, 10am – 2pm

Held on the beautiful spacious lawn outside Avebury House, Richmond, the Vintage Christmas Market is another of the city’s popular markets.

Stalls will be offering clothing, vinyl records, kitchenware, fabrics, furniture, crystals, china, books, old repurposed items and all manner of treasures.

Pastries and cakes will be available, along with a coffee cart and real fruit ice cream truck. The paddling pool and playground will help keep the kids entertained too.

Vegan Christmas Ma¯ kete: Saturday, December 18, 5pm – 8pm

Christchurch’s regular Vegan Night Ma¯ kete is hosting a special Christmas-themed market for shoppers to get all their crueltyfree gifts in one place.

The market will focus on vegan-friendly Christmas gift ideas, as well as food trucks and stalls offering plant-based treats (for gifts and to enjoy yourself on the night).

Live music will be played as you shop. 39 Nursery Rd, Phillipstown.

December Christmas Market: Saturday, December 4, 10am – 3pm

The Trio Craft Christmas Market is promising a stellar range of locally-made arts and crafts, entertainment and food on Saturday.

There’s also a drop-in cafe, foodbank and music for children. 309 Breezes Rd, Aranui.

Mt Pleasant Christmas Art and Craft Market: Saturday, December 4, 9.30am – 12.30pm

Here’s a chance to support local and get Christmas gifts sorted at the same time.

Mt Pleasant Art and Craft Market’s Christmas version is the busiest one of the year with many bonus stallholders offering a range of cool homemade arts and crafts. 3 McCormacks Bay Rd, Mt Pleasant.

Beach Rd Christmas Pop-Up Market: Saturday, December 4, 10am – 3pm

The fifth annual Beach Rd Christmas Pop-Up Market is back and bigger than ever this year.

The market showcases an awesome group of local designers featuring handmade products to order or buy on the spot just in time for Christmas.

The market has a combination of indoor and outdoor stalls and this year’s will be hosting the Burwood Scout Group, who are fundraising. 12 Ascot Ave, Burwood.

* Information correct at the time of publication. Please check event websites and social media pages for the latest information.